Net 15 vs Net 30 vs Net 60: Welche Zahlungsbedingung?

Net 15 vs Net 30 vs Net 60: Which Payment Terms Should You Use?

What does "Net 30" mean on an invoice?

Simply: the client has 30 days to pay you after you send the invoice.

But should *you* use Net 15, Net 30, or Net 60? That depends on your business, your client, and your cash flow.

This guide explains each payment term, when to use it, and how it affects when you get paid.

What Does "Net" Mean?

"Net" = the number of days the client has to pay.

Net 15 = Client pays within 15 days
Net 30 = Client pays within 30 days
Net 60 = Client pays within 60 days

The clock starts on the invoice date, not when the client reads it.

Net 15 — Best for Fast Cash Flow

Who uses it: Freelancers, agencies, consultants, contractors

Pros: - You get paid in 2 weeks (fast) - Clients expect to pay quickly anyway - Low risk of unpaid invoices

Cons: - Some clients might push back - Larger projects are harder to invoice on Net 15

When to use: When you need cash immediately, or when your client is a small business that pays on short cycles.

Net 30 — The Standard

Who uses it: Most small businesses, consultants, B2B companies

Pros: - Industry standard (most clients expect it) - Gives them enough time to process - Good middle ground

Cons: - Slower cash flow than Net 15 - Still have to follow up if they're late

When to use: When you don't know the client's payment habits, or when you're invoicing a mid-sized company. Net 30 is the safe default.

Net 60 — For Large Contracts or Trusted Clients

Who uses it: Large contractors, B2B agencies, established businesses

Pros: - Clients expect it for bigger deals - Shows confidence (you're not desperate for cash) - Standard for enterprise contracts

Cons: - Slow cash flow (two months to wait) - Higher risk of late payment - Need good accounting to track 60-day receivables

When to use: When billing a large client on a multi-month contract, or when it's expected in your industry.

Summary

Term	Wait Time	Who Uses It	Best For
Net 15	15 days	Freelancers	Fast cash flow
Net 30	30 days	Small business	Industry standard
Net 60	60 days	Large contracts	Enterprise clients

Most common: Net 30 is the safe default.

Your move: Pick the terms that match your cash flow needs and client type. [Create your first invoice with clear payment terms here.](/create-free-invoice)